The partner notification service is part of a public health initiative to help protect the public and limit the spread of STIs.

When you choose to use this service to inform one or more sexual partners that you’ve been diagnosed with an STI, you are acting privately and anonymously, as well as individually and of your own volition, in a spirit of goodwill and respect, and with full knowledge of the potential consequences.

Your aim is to inform each person you contact of your diagnosis, in order to encourage them to see a doctor. Once you’ve sent a message, it cannot be changed. Please read the Legal Note before using this service.

World AIDS Day – December 1, 2012

November 28 2012

News release - For immediate distribution

Québec: lagging behind in access to screening and treatment for
people infected by HIV

25% of people living with HIV are still unaware of their HIV status

Montreal, November 28, 2012 – In Quebec, approximately 18,000 people live with HIV (INSPQ), only 41% of whom are subject to regular follow-up and treatment. However, once they are treated, over 90% register an undetectable viral load – significantly reducing the risk of transmitting HIV. In fact, recent clinical tests have demonstrated that among people under effective antiretrovirals whose viral load is undetectable, the risk of transmitting HIV is reduced by 96% (HTPN052, New England Journal of Medicine, 2011).

“This data is crucial to public health,” explains Dr. Réjean Thomas, president-founder of Clinique l’Actuel, Clinique A and l’Actuel sur Rue. “It is urgent that we reach more people, in order to track down and increase the number of people receiving effective treatment and regular follow-up, in order to improve their health and limit the spread of HIV.”

We remind readers that there is a major epidemic of STBBIs in Quebec, especially among young people. In addition, STBBIs increase the risk of transmitting or contracting HIV. It is urgent that the prevention of STBBIs once again becomes a genuine priority in public health in Quebec.

A major proportion of the population vulnerable to HIV, hepatitis and other STBBIs does not integrate into the health corridor. They are therefore neither receiving screening, adapted care nor treatment. That fact led Dr. Thomas and his team to launch a service in the Gay Village, l’Actuel sur rue (AsR). AsR constitutes an entry point into the healthcare system for individuals who are reluctant or have avoided the system, offering custom-designed attendant measures, without a doctor, thanks to a partnership between nurses and community volunteers.

“This model is unique to Canada, and should inspire the Ministry of Health and Social Services to establish other innovative service points to develop a free-screening culture that is free, rapid, walk-in and confidential,” affirms Dr. Thomas. “Screening represents the first stage in taking charge and leads to sustained follow-up and adequate treatment. Government involvement is fundamental in preventing the transmission of HIV and STBBIs and encouraging a healthy youth and general population of Quebec.”